I didn't really love this book. It wasn't necessarily what I thought it would be, and had content that other people may have thought funny, but made me cringe.
I did love the cover though, and thought it was beautifully done.

I recieved a complimentary copy of this book to review from Bethany House Publishers through Netgalley and was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and opinions above are my own. ( )

Lightning Strikes Twice?

Julia, has just turned forty, she is a widow and a single mom with two boys in college. She is shocked when, out of the blue, Samuel shows up at her church.

She hasn't seen him for over twenty years; that is when he broke her heart. Later, she met Mark, got married, and they had their two sons. They lived the life Julia had always wanted until it was cut short by a car accident.

Now, Samual wants back in her life. Before, he was untrustworthy, moody, and full of secrets. He is the last person Julia wants to see. But he claims he has changed, met the Lord, and has always loved her. All those years ago, when Samuel broke up with her, it almost killed Julia, and for a while, she wished it literally had.

As she told her friend, Samuel was not her first love, he was her worst love. Julia doesn't dare open herself up for that kind of pain again.

This story keeps you wondering if things can possibly work out for these two. Her mom, and his dad, are both terrible curmudgeons that add humor to the tale. Julia lives in New Orleans, and there are some descriptions of that unique city.

The faith of both Julia and Samuel plays a big part in this book. Although this is a clean story, adult subject matters are discussed. Julia faces things that would be issues in real life. This five-star book would be enjoyed by fans of romances, and well-written tales.

Thank you, Bethany House, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own. ( )

What a fabulous debut from Rebekah Millet. One of my favorite tropes of old flame to new flame with a few obstacles to overcome.
This story was cute, quirky, witty, swoony and also taught spiritual truths.
The author has written her characters with depth and authenticity. Two of the cantankerous varsity were Samuel’s dad, Teddy and Julia’s mom, Anne. “Standing next to the dining room table, Mama stared him down. Clad in all pink and yellow, she looked like a ticked-off Easter egg.”
The storyline has a realistic world view of consequences of sin and coping with the aftermath. Julia had to work through a boatload of guilt and on toward forgiveness. Samuel had to prove to her that he was a changed man. Not only was Julia faced with the possibility of dating Samuel again, she had to balance her work life, motherhood, and her ministry to help the elderly. She needed to focus on what God wanted her to do.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read with a laugh on almost every page. This author will go far.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Review Team. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* ( )

Julia Monroe Begins Again is the debut novel of Rebekah Millet, and she completely swept me off of my feet with this story! From page one, I connected with Julia and her predicament of turning forty years old. She is such a kind, generous, witty, and faithful woman, I immediately decided she would be my book best friend. Julia, as well as all the other characters, are so realistic–both in their strengths and their flaws–that they are impossible not to fall in love with each and everyone, even Julia’s mother.
Prepare to snicker, belly laugh, cry, and swoon as you read this second-chance romance. It is an incredible story of learning forgiveness, moving forward, and listening to that still small voice. I loved watching Julia step into a new era of her life, even when it wasn’t easy or pretty, because her growth stretched my heart and made me look at turning forty in a much more flattering light.
Overall, this is one of my favorite contemporary romances of the year. I would highly recommend this book to all Christian contemporary romance lovers, especially those who enjoy books by Courtney Walsh or Becky Wade.

I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own. ( )

What an amazing debut by Rebekah Millet! I loved the Southern, sassy, quirky Julia who’s a widow in her 40’s faced with the past and overcoming her fears when it comes to romance and business. It’s a unique read with a not-so-typical heroine. She’ll definitely cause you to feel a gamut of strong emotions which the writer does an excellent job eliciting, proving she’s someone to watch out for.

Julia Monroe lost her husband Mark 10 years ago. She truly loved him and had two sons with him who are now in their late teens and attending college. But before Mark, there was Samuel Reed. After more than 20 years, she spots him at her church and suddenly the pain, heartache, and betrayal she never forgot is pushed to the forefront. Samuel seems to have changed, but can she reconcile Samuel 2.0 with the Samuel from her past.

As she struggles with forgiveness, she also struggles with real fears and anxiety. She’s so afraid of loss, that she isn’t willing to give Samuel a chance or pursue a business opportunity for her homemade cleaning products. Enter her friend Kate. Everyone should have a friend like Kate who pushes Julia and helps her see what God has been trying to show her all along.

Samuel’s a former Green Beret who lost an eye. He’s gone through a lot in those 20 years he’s been away. He’s definitely matured and is infinitely patient. He recognizes the spark between him and Julia that’s still alive and well, but realizes he’s hurt her deeply. He doesn’t want to give up on her, but he might have to in order to respect her wishes.

It’s a heartfelt, funny, poignant, raw story of loss, second chances, romance, overcoming fears, and forgiveness. Told from Julia’s perspective, I found myself sometimes uncomfortable in her head. She’s opinionated, quick to judge, and flippantly funny. But, she’s also a caring mom, and someone who’s trying to do the right thing. For anyone who’s experienced miscarriages, loss of a spouse, or other deeply traumatic events, it’s easy to sympathize with Julia’s fears. I loved the way things finally resolved in the story. If you’re frustrated with Julia, give her a chance. She might just surprise you.

For an authentic Southern experience, I recommend listening to the audiobook version. The narrator does a great job capturing all the characters, especially Julia and really brings this story to life.

Highly recommend to Christian Women’s Fiction, Christian romcom, and Chick Lit fans. Looking forward to reading more books by this author. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook version. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4-4.5 stars ( )